Diandra Interviews Elle Winter: The Random Connections of Music
There are many things that are discussed about the music industry, but its “randomness” is often overlooked. For all your hard work and vision, being “chosen,” acclaimed, and adored feel like lucky draws. Hence, why some artists really do see their careers as blessings. While Elle Winter is spending her first year in college, she has also been in the industry since she was a kid; switching labels and teams till somebody, RED Music, saw that she was a person with ideas. In our interview, she discusses her thoughts on connection, empowerment, and randomness.
Diandra: As an actress and singer, what are the similarities, in technique and style, you find between the two?
Elle Winter: Acting is an art based on empathy and connection. In order to dive into a new character, I must find a way to connect with their circumstance. Music, for me, is also an art form dependent on connection; through my music, in its honest lyrics, I hope I can connect with my listeners. Music and acting are ways the human experience is conveyed, proving that we are actually all a lot more similar, I love how both art forms create this sense of community.
Diandra: With your debut single, “Sick of You,” you sing to being with a person that connects with you. How would you define genuine connection, and who, in your life, has shown you that?
Elle Winter: In my life, the people I have shared a genuine connection with have shown me love, confidence and trust. I have shared this with my friends, my family, and past relationships.
Diandra: Bouncing off the idea of connection, how has music helped you deal with disconnection?
Elle Winter: Music to me is a way we can join in solidarity, as people from all different walks of life can relate to the same song and message. In this day and age, we are so ready to define differences amongst each other, when really we are a lot more similar than we think.
Diandra: Recently signing to RED MUSIC, how would you describe your life/music journey as a “label artist?”
Elle Winter: I have been singing for what feels like my whole life (my mom says since I could talk!) and throughout this journey I’ve worked with several different teams and people who tried to influence me and my vision as an artist. I feel so lucky to sign with RED MUSIC who understand my authentic vision as an artist and are set to bring it to life, in a genuine way, that stays true to who I am as an artist.
Diandra: Having been discovered by Disney, if you were a Disney character, which one would you be and why?
Elle Winter: Hmm, I love Belle from Beauty and the Beast (haha!) I think we are both adventurous. I also feel like I could be Elsa, given my last name is Winter!
Diandra: Having graduated high-school and entering, how do you feel the music/ movie industries can feel like school?
Elle Winter: Now that I finished my first year in college as well, I find that the music industry definitely does mirror the dynamics established in school settings. In my high school experience, there was a sense of community created based on the goal of being accepted to the university of your choice. We would all discuss the stress of the process, the hard work it required, and the randomness of the decisions. In the music industry, there is a similar sense of community, as we all experience the same crazy journey of hard work and honestly that randomness as well.
Diandra: You write music to show people they are not alone in what they are experiencing. What experiences have influenced you most as a song-writer?
Elle Winter: Honestly, all of my experiences influence me as a songwriter! From my own relationships, to the stories my friends and family share with me, I am constantly writing music wherever I go based on whatever I feel or see.
Diandra: You wrote “Yeah No” as an affront to an ex that could not move on. How has music empowered you when defining how you want to be loved?
Elle Winter: Music has definitely helped me articulate what it is I want from a relationship. Given I write about my experiences, I feel like I am able to analyze and step out of a situation in order to paint the picture for a song, which, in turn, helps me decide if something is working for me or not as I am able to take a step back from it.
Dancing With a Stranger – Elle Winter ( Sam Smith & Normani Cover)
Diandra: What themes can we expect from your upcoming EP, and is there a title or release date?
Elle Winter: A lot of the songs are about empowerment. This EP really expresses what I want and how I want to be treated, and most songs articulate an empowering message. It is also an intimate EP; in all of these songs I discuss, in honest ways, about my own experiences. It’s really a look into my heart and soul. It will be out in the fall! I have a title for it and will share it very soon! Stay tuned!
For More Information On Elle Winter or to catch her performance at KTUphoria Click Here.
